We need champions. When we have an idea, a new program, a cause , a new paradigm for action, we want to see these things work. We jump in immediately and do the detail work necessary to bring these processes to life. Some of the ideas work and some don’t. Even when they work, outsiders may or may not buy these processes, ideas and techniques. We need to convince people inside our organizations and outside why this new thing is useful and worth supporting. We need champions. Champions are leaders who will support our cause and who think what we are doing and developing needs a wider audience. These champions fight for us. They talk to politicians, foundations, government agencies, community leaders and others to make our new thing work and become valued. They sell our ideas and programs.
Who are the champions? They are people who are respected and trusted in their communities and social networks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Foundation has recognized the importance of champions and looks and recruits them in all states and localities where they are planning Meta-Leadership Summits. The champions become true believers because meta-leadership as an approach taps into their person skills as people who work across organizations and communities. Advocacy is exciting for them. They rise to the challenge of convincing others about the things and ideas that they promote. They are meta-leaders who work not only across organizations but work well within the organizations that they serve. They are systems thinkers who always view the big picture. They tend to leave the details to others. They are visionary in that they see the value of a new idea and program as well as their impact over the long run. Clearly long term adaptation is important to them. They spend more time on the balcony than on the dance floor. The champions have a strong worldview and tend to be positive about their communities and society.
The champions are your supporters. Search them out. They are critical to making your programs and ideas sticky—make your ideas and programs work and get supported .
Rowitz On Leadership 